Heaven For Chocolate Lovers at the Salon du Chocolat

In France the return from the summer holiday season (la rentrée) is marked by notices from the tax collection authorities, and incidents of social unrest (this year the Human Resources director of Air France literally lost his shirt in a scuffle with protesters). Extreme weather with massive flooding in the southwest, added to the gloomy atmosphere.

But starting on the 28th of October and running to the 1st of November, the 21st Salon du Chocolat will provide a lift for the spirits. The event, which this year brings together 700 participants from 40 countries, is a “must” for chocolate lovers. We say this despite the fact that the crowds will be overwhelming (the event coincides with the French All Saints school holiday). Spread out over 20,000 M2 on two levels., this has become the biggest event in the world dedicated to chocolate and cocoa.

As you enter the salon, you’ll be engulfed in the wonderful aroma of chocolate, putting you in the spirit of the event. What can you expect?

First, there is the not-to-be-missed Chocolate Fashion Show, a somewhat over-the-top event bringing together the talents of chocolatiers and fashion designers to create some incredible chocolate dresses. There’s a show every day at 5pm.

Each day leading French and international chefs, master chocolatiers and young talents offer pastry demonstrations. A Cocoa Show provides live performances from the Lands of Cocoa.

Chocolate lovers will head to the Chocosphere for conferences and tastings around the theme “to understand chocolate is to love it.” Need some positive reinforcement? Check the Chocosphere schedule for daily talks on “Chocolate is good for your heart,” and “How to enjoy grand cru chocolate from bean to bar chocolatiers.”

Free pastry and chocolate workshops for adults and children – “Lessons in Immoderation” – are organized by the cooking school l’Atelier des Sens.